Ronald James Gracey

Born in West Seattle September 15, 1927 to James and Lillian Gracey, the first of four children. Passed away November 1, 2006 at the age of 79 at Virginia Mason Hospital in Seattle, Washington.

Ron's parents lived on 63rd SW and later built a large home on 59th SW where they had 7 trout pools. As a young boy Ron delivered medical prescriptions on his bike for Mr. Ritchie's Alki Drugstore. He attended Alki Elementary and loved playing baseball at Alki ball field. He spent hours fishing on the sound in his little boat he moored under the Alki ferry pilings. Ron's grandparents Clyde and Emma Stevens operated a small cheese factory, which was located on California Ave where the Admiral Safeway store is today. He started his career building homes with his father at age 17. Ron owned and operated Gracey Electric Service located in West Seattle for 45 years. Ron married Lola Murk on November 18, 1951 and during their 55 years of marriage they raised 6 children. Ron loved to work building a summer home on Gamble Bay, remodeling their home in West Seattle, and helping friends and family. Ron referred to their property on Gamble Bay as God's Country.

One of Ron's passions was for salmon fishing and boating with his family aboard their Chris Craft, the Falstaff, which had been a corporate boat owned by the Falstaff Brewing Company in Galveston Texas. The family was boating in Canadian waters when Ron suffered his first heart attack at age 41.

Once the children were grown, Ron and Lola traveled the world. Ron will be missed by his wife Lola and sons; Garry (Gwen) and grandchildren Daniel & Jenna of Everett, Greg (Marilyn) and grandchildren Erik & Linn of West Seattle, Glenn (Kaylene) and grandchildren Craig, Christopher & Kyler of Poulsbo, Gordon of West Seattle. Daughters Gwenn Thomas (Shawn) and grandchildren John & Matthew of Kingston, and Gail Harrison and grandchildren Tim (Becky) & Trevor of Federal Way. Ron is also survived by his brother Loren (Joyce) Gracey. All six children graduated from West Seattle High.

Ron was one of the first patients to receive Eximer heart laser surgery in the US. He received the finest medical care from Group Health Medical Staff and his loving wife of 40 years as a heart patient. His family surrounded him during his final hospital stay. A Memorial Service was held on November 5th at West Side Presbyterian Church in Settle, with a Celebration of Life reception at the Alki Bath House. Remembrances to Group Health Foundation, 521 Wall St., Seattle, WA 98121 or West Side Presbyterian Church, 3601 California Ave. Seattle, 98116.

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